Staples: Jackson’s Historic Restaurants
As we all know, Jackson is rich in history; from monuments to landmarks and even restaurants, there is so much history in our city. Many restaurants have stood the test of time and have been Jackson staples for as long as anyone can recall. Check out some of our favorite historic spots to grab a bite in Jackson.
Brent’s Drugs
A Fondren staple, Brent’s opened in October 1946 with the completion of the Morgan Center, the first shopping center in Mississippi that was later renamed Woodland Hills Shopping Center. Pharmacist Alvin Brent left Patterson’s Drugs in the Plaza Building downtown to open his own pharmacy and soda fountain in the Fondren neighborhood. From its inception, Brent’s was not only a successful pharmacy but also a local gathering place for friends. Brent owned and ran the pharmacy until he sold it in 1977 to pharmacists Paul Helfin and Bob Grantham, who had worked there since 1951. It went through a handful of other owners throughout the years until finally, in 2009, Fondren resident Brad Reeves obtained the now pharmacy-free Brent’s. Brent’s was renovated in 2014 to bring it to the modern days while still keeping some charm. Decades later, Brent’s is always a local favorite that serves up delicious burgers, sandwiches, breakfast, and, of course, classic malts and milkshakes.
Built as the Armour Company Smoke House and Distribution Plant in 1906, this Jackson landmark is an icon of Mississippi’s rich heritage.
Iron Horse Grill
The smokehouse closed in 1977 and was purchased by John D. McWilliams to convert it into a restaurant. The original Iron Horse opened in 1986, and for 10 years, the Iron Horse was a popular downtown staple until two fires mysteriously burned through the interior, the first in 1998 and another in 1999. Half of the building was lost, and the rest was abandoned. Fourteen years later, a group of local citizens made a commitment to restore Iron Horse. The original structure was renovated and brought back from the ashes. Iron Horse Grill has been up and running ever since, serving up delicious steaks, seafood, pasta, and so much more. Iron Horse even has a museum inside, the Mississippi Music Experience at Iron Horse Grill. Learn about the birthplace of America’s music through stories and exhibits of Mississippi artists, trace the history of the music, and experience the expression of the human spirit through music. Of course, don’t forget to have a seat and order a burger, a platter of fajitas, or a hearty serving of shrimp and grits.
In operation since 1935, the Mayflower Café is the oldest operating restaurant in the capital city.
Mayflower
The Mayflower started as a hamburger stand, started by a pair of Greek immigrants and friends from the island of Patmos. Some years later, the Mayflower expanded into the neighboring beer garden to become a full-service restaurant. There were sandwiches, some Greek items, Chinese dishes, and plates of soul food. Over time, the menu was streamlined to spotlight now classic standards: redfish, flounder, and the Mayflower Greek Salad, complete with fresh lump crabmeat. The Mayflower Cafe is a downtown landmark, and few celebrities have even made their way to the Mayflower Cafe. It’s also been featured in a couple of films, including Ghosts of Mississippi and The Help. The house salad dressing at the Mayflower has been featured in Maxim magazine as the Nation’s Number One Condiment and was also featured on Food Network’s The Best Thing I Ever Ate. To go along with the famous salad, customers can enjoy a wide variety of seafood dishes, steaks, chicken, or even pasta dishes. There is also a “lunch only” menu available Monday through Friday that includes sandwiches, burgers, and po’boys, as well as plate lunches. If you’re looking for a taste of Jackson’s history, the Mayflower Cafe is the place to be.
Crechale’s has been a local favorite for many years, with many customers returning over and over again.
Crechale’s
Paul Crechale opened his restaurant, Crechale’s, off highway 80 outside of downtown in 195. A native of the Greek island Skopelos, Paul was no stranger to the restaurant world. In the 1920s, he owned restaurants in Tampa Bay and Chicago and eventually made his way to Jackson. Today, Paul’s grandson Bob runs the favorite local restaurant. The menu remains similar to when it first began: prime steaks, hickory-smoked chicken, fish, shrimp, and crab.
Related Content:
Brent’s Drugs and Soda Fountain
655 Duling Avenue
Jackson, Mississippi 39216
(601) 366-3427
Website
Brent's Drugs and Soda Fountain655 Duling Avenue
Jackson, Mississippi 39216
The Iron Horse Grill
320 West Pearl St.
Jackson, Mississippi 39203
(601) 398-0151
Website
The Iron Horse Grill320 West Pearl St.
Jackson, Mississippi 39203
Mayflower Café
123 W. Capitol Street
Jackson, Mississippi 39201
(601) 355-4122
Website
Mayflower Cafe123 W. Capitol Street
Jackson, Mississippi 39201
Crechale’s Restaurant
3107 Hwy 80 West
Jackson, Mississippi 39204
(601) 355-1840
Website
Crechale's Restaurant3107 Hwy 80 West
Jackson, Mississippi 39204